Bicycling in State College

Riding Safely

Bicycle safety is more than just wearing a helmet. Riding safely means meeting bicycle equipment requirements, obeying traffic signals and markings, and be aware of road conditions and safe riding practices.

Cyclists of all ages should become familiar with the bicycle laws and ordinances that are in place to protect cyclists, motorists and pedestrians. In State College, cyclists under the age of 12 are required to wear a helmet. Cyclists of any age are required to have an audible bell attached to their bicycle and have front and rear lights when bicycling in between dusk and dawn. In addition to cycling equipment requirements, cyclists must obey all traffic signals and laws as they relate to cyclists. Read the Pennsylvania Bicycle Drivers Manual for more information on how to bicycle safely according to state and local laws.

The State College Police Department Bike Patrol

State College has had an active bicycle patrol since it originated in 1993. The Police Department currently has nine police bikes and 20 trained bike patrol officers. Officers assigned to bike patrol duties undergo a rigorous 40-hour training course and are IPMBA certified. They attend yearly training that focuses on riding skills and safety.

Officers assigned to bike patrol, as weather and staffing permits, are just as approachable as officers on foot patrol; however on-bike, officers have the added advantage of being able to quickly respond to calls for service. Members of the community can easily approach bike officers to ask questions, engage in conversations, report crimes or have their concerns addressed about quality of life issues. In addition, bicycle patrol officers assist in special events such as parades, community festivals, celebrations and sporting events.

The bicycle patrol enforces bicycle laws downtown, as well as focusing on proactive enforcement of quality of life issues in the downtown and surrounding neighborhoods.

Aw

ards and Recognition

State College has received a silver recognition from the League of American Bicyclists, Bicycle Friendly Business program. The Bicycle Friendly Business program recognizes employers' efforts to encourage a more bicycle-friendly atmosphere for employees and customers. The program honors innovative bicycle-friendly efforts, provides technical assistance and helps businesses foster a healthier workplace and become more socially and environmentally responsible.

Would your company like to become a Bicycle Friendly Business? The Bicycle Friendly Business application is available online at bicyclefriendlybusiness.org. The site also provides resources and technical assistance to help you. Contact the League at (202) 822-1333 or email to receive more information.

The State College-Centre Region also received bronze level Bicycle Friendly Community recognition from the League of American Bicyclists in 2012 through a region-wide effort between the Centre Region Council of Governments and participating municipalities, including the Borough of State College. The League also provided a feedback report that outlines strategies for improving the engineering, education, encouragement, enforcement and evaluation and planning for bicycling. The Borough continues to look for ways to encourage bicycling and improve safety through programs such as the Bicycle Ambassadors, incorporating on-street bike lanes during construction projects, and providing adequate bicycle parking.